EMMA O’CONNELL

Emma O’Connell of Middletown, NY, a certified social worker, died on Saturday, April 2, 2011 at O.R.M.C., Horton Campus. She was 63.

The daughter of the late Frank and Marion Nabholz Gawors, she was born on November 29, 1947 in the Bronx, NY.

Emy married Joseph O’Connell on August 17, 1968 in the Bronx. They adopted two children and opened their home to 19 foster children over the years. She was a gentle, loving woman of undying faith and courage who was an inspiration to all. Emy will remain in our hearts.

In addition to her husband, Emy is survived by sons Joseph and wife Jillian of Highland Mills, NY, Andrew and wife Tisha of Otisville, NY, Nicholas and Summer of California and Tony and wife Janet of Glen Spey, NY; daughters Patti and Merilee, both at home; brothers Frank Gawors and wife Mary Pat and George Gawors; sisters Lauretta Camardelli and husband Ralph and Marian Gawors-Piccininni; grandchildren Joey, Caleb, A.J., Josh, Isabella, Nicky, Dezirae and Katelyn and Kiley; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A funeral mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Thursday, April 7 at St. Joseph’s R.C. Church, 149 Cottage St., Middletown. Burial will follow in the family plot in St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Middletown.